January 15, 2018

Master's Graduate Assistantship

Nutrition of Greenhouse Ornamentals
Department of Plant Agriculture
University of Guelph

There is increasing interest in Canada and elsewhere in the low-input sustainable production of
greenhouse ornamental crops. We are investigating a novel and innovative approach for delivering
nutrients to chrysanthemums. This involves a combination of research and commercial greenhouse trials,
measuring yields, constructing nutrient budgets, and assessing plant nutrient status using a mix of leaf
analysis and visual diagnosis. To date, we have found that the supply of specific nutrients can be reduced
by approximately 75% over the crop cycle, compared to current industry standards. If these trends hold for
other nutrients, our approach could transform the production of ornamental crops.

A single Master's student position is currently available to study the nutrition of greenhouse ornamentals
in the Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph. Applicants with an undergraduate
background in plant biology or horticulture are preferred. The successful applicant will have the option to
begin in either May or September 2018, and will receive a full stipend to cover tuition and living expenses
that are commensurate with graduate study at the University of Guelph. Additional Master's level positions
will be available for 2019 and 2020. Inquiries should be directed by e-mail to Professor Barry Shelp
(bshelp@uoguelph.ca) or Professor Gale Bozzo (gbozzo@uoguelph.ca).